On this I sent Sherman, as being, I thought, the most suitable person for an independent command, and besides he was entitled to it if it had to be given to any one.

He was directed to take with him another division of his corps.

This left one back, but having one of McPherson's divisions he had still the equivalent.
Before the receipt by me of these orders the battle of Chickamauga had been fought and Rosecrans forced back into Chattanooga.

The administration as well as the General-in-chief was nearly frantic at the situation of affairs there.

Mr.Charles A.Dana, an officer of the War Department, was sent to Rosecrans' headquarters.